Frequently Asked Questions

how it works

3We help the charity sell the vehicle.You may be eligible for a tax deduction.

Find answers to your car donation and tax deduction questions

General Questions

What kind of vehicles can I donate?

We accept all kinds of vehicles for donation to charity. Cars, trucks, vans, RVs, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, and more.

Do I need any paperwork to donate?

In most cases all you need is a signed title. If you have any questions please contact our donor service department at 800-237-5714.

Is my vehicle donation tax deductible?

If you itemize your tax return you may deduct the sale value of your donated vehicle or the fair market value up to $500, whichever is greater. You can find more information on charitable vehicle donation tax deductions at: http://www.irs.gov/Credits-&-Deductions

Your vehicle donation will be sold at auction and the proceeds benefit the nonprofit organization of your choice. Donateacar.com is powered by Insurance Auto Auctions Donation Division to process and sell vehicle donations at auction.

How much of the proceeds from the sale at auction does the charity receive?

How much the charity receives will vary depending on the sale price and costs of selling the vehicle. The costs vary depending on factors such as towing, auction and advertising expenses. Generally, the charity you choose will receive seventy percent or more of the net proceeds.

My car is in very bad condition, can I still donate it?

Yes you can! We are happy to take almost any vehicle from almost any location.

Do I get a receipt?

Yes, about five days after your vehicle is picked up you will be mailed a receipt for tax deduction purposes.

Do I get a free vacation certificate?

Yes! DonateaCar.com would like to thank you for donating your vehicle by sending you a free vacation certificate. After you donate your vehicle, call us at 1-800-237-5714 and we will mail one to you.

Pick-up, Towing, and Sale Questions

Who will pick up my donated vehicle?

A professional towing company will pick up your vehicle from a location of your choice.

How long does it take for my vehicle to be picked up after I donate it?

It depends on the location of the vehicle but usually 1-2 business days.

My vehicle isn’t at my home; will you pick it up somewhere else?

We are happy to pick-up almost any vehicle from almost any location.

Do I need to be there when my vehicle is picked up?

No, most of the time you do not need to be present when your vehicle is towed.

Title and Registration Questions

What paperwork is required for my vehicle donation?

Paperwork required for donation varies by state. Please choose your state from the drop down below:

I don’t have my title, can I still donate my vehicle?

Our title specialists can help get a replacement title, just call 800-237-5714.

What if my registration is expired?

Registration requirements vary by state, please call 800-237-5714 and we can advise you on how to move forward.

My car failed the smog test, can it still be donated?

Absolutely, we are happy to take your car regardless of emission or smog tests.

I don’t have insurance on my car, is that a problem?

When your vehicle is picked up you are no longer liable for the vehicle and it does not need be covered by insurance.

Don’t see the answer you need? Please call 800-237-5714 or email ddmdonations@iaai.com for further information.

Indiana title and registration information:

Boats purchased after 1/1/1986 with a purchase price of $3000 or more requires a title

If you have further questions regarding your state’s title requirements please call 800-237-5714. You can also find resources at the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

Iowa title and registration information:

Iowa Title Requirements:

All cars, trucks, motorcycles, trailers with an unladen weight of more than 2000 lbs, semi-trailers, boats over 17 ft or boats with a lien, mopeds, snowmobiles acquired after 1/1/1998 and ATVs acquired after 1/1/2000 require a title

Trailers and semi-trailers with an unladen weight of 2000 lbs or less do not require a title